My FM Log: Heroes

The Toyota GR Yaris and the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N are prize cars in Forza Motorsport's Daily Racers update. Having got my hands on these two everyday heroes on the road and track, let's get to know them two.

I acquired the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N by completing the Open Class Tour update or finishing 10 races in the Open Class Featured Multiplayer until the March 12, 2025 deadline. 

The IONIQ 5 N is the high-performance variant of the IONIQ 5 crossover and signifies that Hyundai N is embracing electrification.

Equipped with an 84 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and two electric motors that power both the front and rear wheels, the IONIQ 5 N delivers a default output of 609 PS and 740 Nm of torque. When the N Grin Boost feature is activated for ten seconds, the power increases to 650 PS. Additionally, with N Launch Control engaged, it can achieve a 0-100 km/h time of just 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 260 km/h.

Hyundai has truly excelled with the IONIQ 5 N, which has won the 2024 World Performance Car award as well as Top Gear's 2023 Car of the Year. This high-performance electric crossover not only boasts an impressive design but also the power and speed to match. Its recent achievement of setting a new record at Pikes Peak with a time of 9 minutes and 30.852 seconds in the Modified and Production SUV/Crossover classes further underscores its performance capabilities.

Moving to the Toyota GR Yaris that I acquired by completing the Daily Racers Tour or finishing 10 races in the Daily Racers featured multiplayer until the March 26, 2025 deadline.

Known as the second JDM sports car of the Reiwa era, the GR Yaris served as the template for Toyota's next rally car. Take the fourth-generation Yaris, strip the two extra doors off, make it wider, jam it with the G16E-GTS 1.6L 3-cylinder intercooler turbo engine, and lodge it with the GR-FOUR four-wheel-drive system. The result is a road-legal rally car akin to the legendary Toyota Celica GT-FOUR.

In addition to the 1.6L turbocharged variant, there is a cheaper and much slower RS variant with the 1.5L M15A-FKS engine mated to a CVT.

Having acquired these two high-performance Asian superheroes, let's drive these two around Brands Hatch to prove just how "super" these everyday superheroes are.

They both know how to use their superpowers effectively. As the saying goes, "with great power comes great responsibility." That's why I admire them both.

Anyway, enjoy your new rides.

Hyundai IONIQ 9

The first-ever Hyundai IONIQ 9 SUV completes the IONIQ trilogy of electric cars and it's the flagship EV SUV of the Hyundai lineup. Let's get to know more about the top of Hyundai's electric food chain.

2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9

With prices starting at 67,150,000 Korean Won plus additional costs, the first-ever Hyundai IONIQ 9 can be rudely called the Palisade of Hyundai EVs. While identically sized to the Palisade, the IONIQ 9 is a zero-emission business class on all four wheels that takes a different approach to "touring."

2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9

Like its IONIQ siblings, which draw inspiration from their respective concept vehicles—the IONIQ 5 from the 45 Concept and the IONIQ 6 from the Prophecy Concept—the IONIQ 9 takes cues from the Seven Concept. While the design, inspired by the concept, is a standout feature of the IONIQ 9, the rear view is somewhat puzzling, as it may evoke memories of various Volvo wagons from the past.

2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 interior

Inside, the IONIQ 9 is everything you expect for a flagship EV SUV. From the driver's side, you'll be greeted by the braille-written steering wheel that became a signature for today's Hyundai models, a panoramic curved display that features a 12.3-inch instrumental display, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen for infotainment purposes, buttons and knobs for the aircon and radio, ambient lighting, and a glove compartment underneath the center console, among others. 

On the passenger side, the IONIQ 9 offers a choice between a 6-seater and a 7-seater. The cargo space accommodates from 620L (with rear seats up) to 2,462L (with all passenger seats folded down), while the frunk provides from 52L (for 4WD models) to 88L (for 2WD models). Notably, the six-seater variant features a unique asset that no luxury people mover possesses, not even today's Toyota Alphard: swiveling second-row seats.

2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9

Armed with the E-GMP platform and a 110kWh li-ion battery, rear-wheel-drive variants of the IONIQ 9 have 160kW of power and 532km of driving range while the range-topping variant with H-TRAC all-wheel-drive system has 315kW of power and 501km of driving range.

Despite being somewhat bulky, the IONIQ 9 offers a luxurious experience comparable to any premium SUV you can think of. It serves as a well-organized cruiser, perfect for touring South Korea's upscale destinations, including the stunning location dubbed "Paradise" by Singles' Inferno. Equipped with H-TRAC, it features an Auto Terrain Mode that automatically adjusts its capabilities for various surfaces, whether tarmac, gravel, or snow. While it may not match the quality of a Range Rover, it is still quite impressive.

In terms of safety, the IONIQ 9 comes loaded with the latest Hyundai SmartSense technologies. These include high beam assist, Highway Driving Assist 2, navigation-based smart cruise control, Remote Smart Parking Assist 2, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist 2, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Rear Parking Collision Avoidance Assist, among others.

The arrival of the first-ever IONIQ 9 completes the IONIQ trilogy of electric cars. With its SUV ruggedness, luxury sedan-riding comfort, award-winning EV powertrain, and premium features that can upset European imports, this is Hyundai's opulent expression of zero-emission touring. This is common-sense business class the Hyundai way. Any questions?

Available Colors: Ionosphere Green, Sunset Brown, Nocturne Grey Metallic, Celadon Grey Metallic, Bio Phillic Blue Pearl, Abyss Black Pearl, Serenity White Pearl, Nocturne Grey Matte, Celadon Grey Matte, and Gravity Gold Matte.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

My FH5 Log: The Moment We Meet...

The Toyota GR 86 and the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N were featured cars in the advertisement for the Hyundai N x Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival, which aired in October 2024. In the ad, we witnessed these two sports cars racing head-on and performing drifts. It’s a long story, but in Forza Horizon 5, the experience is quite different.

The poster cars from October 2024's Hyundai N x Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival are here to settle the scores again just as how the rivalry between Hyundai and Toyota in the WRC became the talk of the town. But first, let's get to know these two.

Let's start with the Toyota GR86, the second generation of Toyota's affordable rear-wheel-drive sports coupe. The GR86 builds upon the legacy of its predecessor while maintaining the accessible driving dynamics that enthusiasts around the world appreciate. It features an improved version of the platform used by the previous model. Although the new model is similar in size to the old one, the sport-tuned suspension and updated chassis enhance the driving experience.

Under the hood, the flat-four boxer engine has been upgraded from the previous model's 2.0L to a 2.4L displacement. This change results in increased power output of 235 PS and 250 Nm of torque, with the option of a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Now, let's get to know about the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, the high-performance version of Hyundai's award-winning all-electric compact crossover SUV.

The IONIQ 5 N features an 84 kWh lithium-ion battery pack equipped with two electric motors that power both the front and rear wheels. It delivers a standard output of 609 PS and 740 Nm of torque, making it more powerful than the Kia EV6 GT. With the N Grin Boost activated for ten seconds, the power increases to 650 PS. Furthermore, with N Launch Control, it can achieve a 0-100 km/h time of just 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 260 km/h.

Hyundai has truly excelled with the IONIQ 5 N, which won the 2024 World Performance Car award and was named Top Gear's 2023 Car of the Year. This high-performance electric crossover has impressive aesthetics and boasts remarkable power and speed. It set a new record at Pikes Peak, completing the course in 9 minutes and 30.852 seconds in the Modified and Production SUV/Crossover classes. This car will undoubtedly continue to attract attention and make a significant impact in the automotive industry.

Let's find out how good these two cars are around the main festival grounds. Roll the tape!

And now, the results...

GR86 - 1m25.836s

IONIQ 5 N - 1m18.662s

It's a bit misguided to compare a powerful electric SUV with an affordable rear-wheel-drive sports coupe. However, both vehicles have effectively served as promotional ambassadors for the Hyundai N x Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival. Well done, GR86 and IONIQ 5 N. You both deserve a round of applause!

"We race as competitors.

The moment we meet,

a new thrill begins."

EPILOGUE

Having grown respect for the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N for being the antithesis of the ever-growing all-electric crossover SUV market, I think it's time for this K-popper to have its own live performance but first...

A witty move. Shiki-chan would be impressed with this one.

As the Korean EV SUV hero donning the role of Liella's wittiest and most clever member, we are tackling through an EventLab creation inspired by a racetrack in Taiwan. I don't know what that is but we're going to find out. Let's rock and roll.

Smart move. I won't regret it.

In Forza Horizon 5, we are united by our passion for racing, much like Hyundai N and Toyota Gazoo Racing. While competition is a part of the game, it's not our primary focus. We come together to have fun and share our love of racing.

My FH5 Log: The Silent Movement

Kia's back in Forza! This time around, they've added the latest car to bear the new Kia logo. You know the one, the weird-looking one with the "Movement that Inspires" slogan.

What Kia is this, you may ask? Here's a hint; this is the overall prize car in the Forza Horizon 5 Modern Horizons update by hitting 80 points. It won the 2022 European COTY, 2022 Korean COTY, 2022 Red Dot Award for Best of the Best Car Design and Innovative Product, 2022 What Car? Awards Car of the Year and Electric SUV of the Year, and of course, 2023 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year.

The answer is this; The Kia EV6 GT. Before driving this award-winning EV, let's take a quick dive into the EV6 GT.

First launched in 2021, the Kia EV6 signaled the beginning of a new age for Kia. With its just-size styling and performance that defy expectations, the EV6 is the real materialization of the "Movement that Inspires" slogan. The EV6 GT is the range-topper that starts at 76,680,000 Korean Won plus additional costs when it went on sale a year after the normal EV6's launch. With the GT button pressed,  it will unleash the full capability of the EV6 GT. Apart from the adjustments to the e-LSD, electronically controlled suspension, and whatnots, it delivers an explosive performance of 585PS of power, 740Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 3.5 seconds, and a top speed of 260kph. As for the range, it's good for a combined 312km.

Not too shabby for an EV, right? Yes and no. Although I am utterly grateful to have a spin with this high-performance all-electric crossover that upsets the world over, that's the new world order the Korean way to you, feels like it wasn't enough to take on this...

As Han from The Fast and The Furious universe said, “What you think, I’m gonna let you roll in a Hyundai?” For now, yes. There's an all-electric Hyundai crossover that is worthy of bearing the N mark and I won this car straight from the Modern Horizons Storm Season Playlist.

This is the first-ever Hyundai IONIQ 5 N. The all-electric high-performance crossover with the credentials of the N car.

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N is the high-performance version of the IONIQ 5 crossover and a sure sign that N is embracing electrification. It's got a sporty design, and the N Steering Wheel with N-specific functions, as well as a center console with race-specific features for your track day use.

The IONIQ 5 N is armed with an 84 kWh Li-ion battery pack and two electric motors powering the front and rear wheels. It produces a default 609 PS of power and 740 Nm of torque, more powerful than the Kia EV6 GT. With the N Grin Boost engaged for ten seconds, the power gets bumped to 650 PS, and with N Launch Control in play, it's capable of a 0-100 km/h time of 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 260 km/h. 

Although winning the 2024 World Performance Car award as well as Top Gear 2023 Car of the Year, Hyundai has really outdone itself with the IONIQ 5 N. This high-performance electric crossover not only looks the part but it's got the power and speed to back it up. The fact that it recently set a new record at Pikes Peak with a time of 9 minutes and 30.852 seconds in the Modified and Production SUV/Crossover classes is proof of that. I'm sure this car will continue to turn heads and make waves in the automotive world.

Having enjoyed driving the two award-winning Korean EVs, it's time for the long-awaited duel. The Kia EV6 GT and the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N will clash to the top of the caldera with the fastest time will decide the victor. Obviously, the IONIQ 5 N has the upper hand because it's more powerful than the EV6 GT and it has one thing the EV6 GT doesn't; the N Drift Optimizer. I can enable the IONIQ 5 N's drifting capabilities at the push of the button. Long story short but you get the point.

Anyway, the grudge match between the two Korean high-performance EVs is about to begin. Roll the tape. Dojeon!

And now the results...

EV6 GT - 3m31.428s

IONIQ5 N - 3m23.687s

Hyundai wins the day! With its powerful electric drivetrain, unorthodox dynamics, and recent PPIHC experience, the IONIQ 5 N proved itself to be the victor over the Kia EV6 GT. I have to say that Hyundai really outdid itself with this high-performance electric crossover. Not only does it look the part, but it's also got the power and speed to back it up. With these recent developments, it's clear to me that Hyundai is embracing electrification, and I can't wait to see what they do next.

As Korean car manufacturers, Kia and Hyundai are in some ways part of the same family tree. But in another way, their recent models are showing the opposite to be true. The Kia EV6 GT and the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N both won Car of the Year in their respective years, but when you pit these award-winning cars against each other, the Hyundai comes out on top.

The "new normal" is upon us, and it's clear that electrification is the future. But the Hyundai Motor Group knows how to make EVs fast and clever. They've made these cars not just environmentally friendly but really fun to drive as well.

The more you know.

Hyundai IONIQ 5 (2025MY minor change)

The Hyundai IONIQ 5, the electric car that forever changed Hyundai, has been given a minor change for the 2025 model year, and this award-winning electric car is now made even better.

2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5

Starting at 52.4 million Korean Won, the facelifted Hyundai IONIQ 5 saw some revisions on the award-winning electric car that forever changed Hyundai, keeping it fresh and competitive as the opportunity arises.

2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5

2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 interior

The IONIQ 5 minor change saw some revisions inside and out. The exterior now sports a V-shaped garnish and revised bumpers, increasing its overall length by 20mm. The rear spoiler's revised as well and a new set of wheels are offered for this minor change. A sporty N Line variant was added to this minor change, mimicking the looks of the high-performance IONIQ 5 N variant and that's it.

The interior is revised with its new center console layout, a new physical button that offers access to frequently used functions, the wireless charging pad repositioned to the upper part, a new steering wheel design, and ccNC implementation with OTA updates, among others. The N Line jams the red ambient lighting, sports seats, metal pedals, red stitching, and the N steering wheel into the mix.

The IONIQ 5's electric powertrain was updated by increasing the size of its Li-ion battery from 77.4kWh to 84kWh, meaning the performance and ecology were updated as well. RWD variants have 229PS of power and up to 485km of driving range while HTRAC AWD variants have 325PS of power and up to 425km of driving range. Apart from the increased battery size, it comes with a new shock absorber, new cowl crossbar, doubled reinforcement at the rear wheels and the lower part of the vehicle, improved body stiffness, and added sound insulation, slightly improving its dynamics for the good of it.

Apart from the reinforced body and eight airbags, the IONIQ 5 minor change features new safety features such as the hands-on detection steering wheel, Lane Keeping Assist 2, Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 (RSPA 2), Forward/Side/Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist, intelligent front lighting, Digital Key 2, and Built-In Cam 2.

The award-winning Hyundai IONIQ 5 is now made even better with this facelift and it looks like it's on a roll. Will you?

Available colors: Atlas White, Lucid Blue Pearl, Digital Teal Green Pearl, Cyber Grey Metallic, Ecotronic Grey Pearl, Abyss Black Pearl, Atlas White Matte, Ecotronic Grey Matte, Gravity Gold Matte, and Ultimate Red Metallic (N Line only).

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

My FH5 Log: I'M ON IT

In the early days of the COVID pandemic, Hyundai showcased the Prophecy concept which previews the company's first fully-electric saloon sized to Sonata proportions. When Hyundai announced the creation of the IONIQ sub-brand of electric vehicles, the Prophecy Concept starred in a music video with BTS performing the IONIQ brand's anthem, IONIQ: I'M ON IT. Two years after the Prophecy Concept showcase, its production equivalent came to life.

Obtained after hitting a total of 80 points throughout Forza Horizon 5's Lunar New Year series update, here comes another Hyundai that will make the ARMY thrilled to bits since the Prophecy Concept popped up in the IONIQ: I'M ON IT music video starring BTS.

This is the IONIQ 6, the first fully-electric executive midsize sedan from Hyundai.

Before getting my ARMY vibes with this car, let's have a quick info with this car now that I got my hands on it.

Launched in 2022, the Hyundai IONIQ 6 is the second part of the IONIQ trilogy of electric cars since the IONIQ 5 crossover of 2021. With styling inspired by the Prophecy Concept, the IONIQ 6 is one of the most aerodynamic electric cars ever made thanks to its streamlined silhouette.

Running on the same E-GMP platform as the IONIQ 5, the IONIQ 6 is packed with a 77.4kWh battery capacity. In Long Range variants, it produces a high-performance class 228PS of power, or with 4WD variants, a sports car-like 325PS of power.

Smooth like butter, you say? Because of the aerodynamics being smooth like butter, traveling through the straights is a breeze for the IONIQ 6. However, in terms of dynamics, because the IONIQ 6 featured in-game has 4WD, it feels clinically mild to drive. On the bright side, since this is Horizon, you are free to exploit whatever capabilities this fully-electric Korean executive saloon offers. I'm planning to do some stuff with this K-Pop superstar but in the meantime...

...the IONIQ 6 is transported to an EventLab creation where it will face a couple of ICE-powered competitions in a re-enactment of a certain city course from a certain video game. I don't know what that is but for the IONIQ 6, it just feels like home. Flush in the VTR.

A little rough on the competition but like I said, it just feels like home.

A prophecy turned reality, a BTS favorite turned into a Spiderverse favorite, the IONIQ 6 is proof that Hyundai's EV gamble really paid off and here in Forza Horizon 5, players are starting to behave like the ARMY while sampling this Korean EV saloon. Yes, whenever they got their hands on the IONIQ 6, they reminded them of the Prophecy Concept from the BTS music video of the IONIQ brand anthem.

♪IONIQ, IONIQ, IONIQ, IONIQ, IONIQ, IONIQ...♪

Hyundai IONIQ 5 N

When Hyundai's high-performance N division said they would brace electrification, they really meant it, shocking the entire world by storm. After years of waiting since the launch of IONIQ 5, the first-ever electrified N car has arrived and it's time to get too jealous about it.

2024 Hyundai IONIQ 5 N

2024 Hyundai IONIQ 5 N interior

Welcome to the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, the high-performance version of the award-winning IONIQ 5 electric crossover that signals the start of N's electrified route, like it or not. It costs 76,000,000 Korean Won plus additional costs and from every angle, this commoner's EV gets Physical. Physical: N, of course.

Although it looks vaguely similar to the normal IONIQ 5, this beefed-up version features signature N elements, a sporty exterior design, an N Steering Wheel with N-specific functions, and a specific center console with race-specific features fit for your track day use in Inje, among many others. It's hard to say if the IONIQ 5 N is a classified sleeper car because it looks pretty much like the normal one but...who knows. It's going to be a long day.

Armed with an 84kWh Li-ion battery pack and two electric motors powering the front and rear wheels, making it a punchy 4WD prized fighter, the IONIQ 5 N produces a default 609PS of power and 740Nm of torque, more powerful than the Kia EV6 GT. However, with the N Grin Boost engaged for ten seconds, the power gets bumped to 650PS, and with N Launch Control in play, it's capable of a 0-100kph time of 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 260kph, faster than a luxury German saloon. As for the driving range, it's good for 351km on one full charge.

Just like the normal IONIQ 5, it supports V2L capability, meaning you can use some of its juice to charge your phones, your laptop, heck, you can even plug in your TV sets and binge-watch some K-dramas while in the middle of a tailgating party with your pals.

Being a 4WD electric street fighter, the IONIQ 5 N is armed with an e-LSD at the rear axle as well as N Torque Distribution with 11 levels of adjustment and by surprise, an N Drift Optimiser. Although it feels bulky to drive as expected for an electric car, its N characteristics made it damn-straight addictive everywhere. You can really forget about your thoughts while trying to wrestle this car like a Ssireum match.

Although controversial, the IONIQ 5 N features numerous gimmicks such as the N e-shift system where a virtual 8-speed DCT comes out for the play and with the manual mode set, it shifts like you were in a video game, and the ultra-flashy N Active Sound+ where two external speakers and eight internal speakers can imitate engine noises including the jet-inspired Supersonic sound effect.

Like the normal IONIQ 5, the N features a host of safety features such as Remote Smart Parking Assist, Surround View Monitor, and Hyundai SmartSense, among many others.

So, what can I say about the IONIQ 5 N? While the virtual gear shifting and the virtual sound effects are flashy enough to be taunted by speedo boys as a poser machine, not to mention the quirky and bulky handling feel that feels like you're in a Ssireum match, the IONIQ 5 N is one of the many reasons that electric cars are getting manly and dangerous at the same time. Mixing subtlety and obviousness is one thing but with the IONIQ 5 N, we're experiencing burning jealousy right now, wishing we wanted to drive one someday.

The commoner's EV has turned...

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Hyundai IONIQ 6

Following the success of the IONIQ 5, the second chapter of the IONIQ trilogy of electric cars has arrived, and looks like the "prophecy" was fulfilled, pun intended. Inspired by the Prophecy Concept, the first-ever IONIQ 6 has arrived to follow the same success story as the IONIQ 5, only in a saloon setting never done by the Koreans.

2023 Hyundai IONIQ 6

Priced at 52,000,000 Korean Won plus additional costs, the IONIQ 6 can be downright outrageous to call the poor man's Tesla Model 3 because, with such pricing, it's cheaper to own than the said rival. Although it doesn't have the credentials of its American EV rival, the IONIQ 6 is made for one thing only; to get the job done without the drama.

2023 Hyundai IONIQ 6

Like the IONIQ 5 was inspired by the 45 Concept, the IONIQ 6's styling draws inspiration from the Prophecy Concept, the ideal recipe for a rap song with the words "prophecy" at one end and "six" at the other end. Rhymes aside, the Prophecy-inspired styling is the charming point of the IONIQ 6. While the front view is about as clean as a Mitsubishi GTO, the 911-esque rear view with the Lincoln Mark VIII-esque rear lamps is dramatic indeed, not to mention the rear spoiler that is downright out-of-context for an electric car like this. Above all, the streamlined styling made the IONIQ 6 one of the most aerodynamic electric cars ever made, as smooth as the BTS song Butter. Get it?

2023 Hyundai IONIQ 6 interior

Smooth like butter the exterior design is, the interior of the IONIQ 6 is part minimalist, and part user-friendly at the same time. Aside from toying around with the super-long monitor plastered to the driver's side of the dashboard, the digital side mirror, voice recognition, and the Dual Full Auto Air Conditioner, not to mention the show-off ambient lighting that feels like you're in the nightclub, the IONIQ 6 features a bridge-type center console that allows you to use multiple devices inside the car, turning it into an office desk on wheels. Word of warning though because most of the charging ports allow USB-C connectivity, feels like none of your existing chargers rather than USB-C types will work. Speaking of spacing, it's about as roomy as a Hyundai Sonata and the boot space isn't bad for a rear-wheel-drive electric saloon with coupe-like styling.

Like the IONIQ 5, the IONIQ 6's interior materials have been derived from renewable materials such as the Eco Process Genuine Leather made from vegetable oil extracted from flax seeds, BIO Paint Door Trim from flowers and corn, BIO TPO crashpad and PET yarn headlining made from yarns extracted sugar cane, and carpets made out of old fishing nets. Such resources made the IONIQ 6 come in peace with nature.

2023 Hyundai IONIQ 6

Time to uncover the IONIQ 6's electric propulsion system. Running on the same E-GMP platform as the IONIQ 5, the IONIQ 6 is packed with a 77.4kWh battery capacity. In Long Range variants, it produces a high-performance class 228PS of power, or with 4WD variants, a sports car-like 325PS of power. Questioning about the range, the rear-wheel-drive Long Range variant is good for a combined 524km, which beats the old lean-burn engine-powered Hyundais of the late 90s by a long shot. 4WD Long Range variants are good for a combined 484km of driving range, which is still better than lean-burn engine-powered Hyundais that can get you from Seoul to Busan. While charging at a public charging station, it will take about 18 minutes to charge the batteries from 10% to 80%.

With electric cars becoming alternative power sources, the IONIQ 6 is no exception and with its V2L capability, it's a whole new experience for people to find some cool and show-offy life hacks with this vehicle. Sometimes show-off, sometimes life-saving. This is V2L in action and the IONIQ 6 is as useful as any other electric car in the world.

Because safety is the top priority for electric cars, the IONIQ 6 features Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of active safety features such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2, rear-side collision avoidance assist, lane departure prevention assist, Highway Driving Assist 2, navigation-based smart cruise control, high beam assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Remote Smart Parking Assistant 2.

Despite not being as cool as a Tesla Model 3, the first-ever IONIQ 6 from Hyundai shows that electrification is addictive and worth toying about because of the wondrous features it possesses. For a Korean-made electric saloon, this is pretty impressive and it could be the Sonata of the new age, which is outlandish to say it. It's the new normal, after all.

Available Colors: Gravity Gold Matte, Digital Green Matte, Serenity White Pearl, Nocturne Gray Metallic, Ultimate Red Metallic, Digital Green Pearl, Transmission Blue Pearl, Bio Philic Blue Pearl, and Abyss Black Pearl.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Hyundai IONIQ 5

Originally named for Hyundai's alternative to the Toyota Prius, the IONIQ name is now a sub-brand for Hyundai's electrification revolution with the IONIQ 5 electric compact crossover the first of the three IONIQ electric vehicles coming this decade. With Hyundai's aims to go big in the electric revolution, what's it all about the first-ever IONIQ 5?

2022 Hyundai IONIQ 5

Starting at 49.8 million Korean Won (roughly 44,300 US Dollars) plus additional costs, the IONIQ 5 electric CUV marks a fresh start for Hyundai's electrification goals and there's so much importance to talk about regarding the first of Hyundai's new IONIQ line of electric vehicles but let's focus on the juicy bits that made the IONIQ 5 a must-have for electric car hunters.

Starting with the design, the IONIQ 5 draws cues from the 45 Concept of 2019, which is a tribute to the first Hyundai vehicle, the Pony. Like the concept it was based on, it has nothing in common with the legendary Pony but the squarish looks and hatchback form isn't half bad for an electric crossover that is offered in either a rather enjoyable rear-wheel-drive or a more capable four-wheel-drive. Of course, some speedo boys are tempted to go for the rear-wheel-drive variant but it's hard to tell why.

2022 Hyundai IONIQ 5 interior

2022 Hyundai IONIQ 5 interior

Having got to know its sharp and boxy exterior styling, let's get to know about the minimalist interior that is as enjoyable as a Nintendo Switch if you know what I mean. Yes, I said it because of the two screens on the dashboard reminiscent of the Nintendo Switch Lite. There's one for the speedos and the other for the navigation and thankfully, there are fully functional buttons, touch panels, and a knob in the hopes to become a user-friendly vehicle to experience. But the real party piece of the IONIQ 5 is the spacing because of the flat floor, moveable center console, and adjustable front seats, all in the name of modern living. It's like seating on a fancy sofa you bought from IKEA and whatever the reason, the IONIQ 5 brings "house fancy" to its interior. Of course, if you mention boot space, it's really not that bad because, with the rear seats present, you can store this week's grocery shopping list or deliveries if you're into the delivery business. Fold the passenger seats down and you have as much as almost 1,600 liters of boot space. Not bad.

There's a well-known trivia that most parts of the interior are made from recyclable materials and other sustainable materials such as plants. That's sustainability the Korean way.

2022 Hyundai IONIQ 5

The IONIQ 5 is offered with two battery pack configurations such as the 58 kWh battery pack and the Long Range 72.6 kWh battery pack. I know the latter is expensive but it can go as much as 429km in one full charge for rear-wheel-drive variants. The all-wheel-drive variant? Of course, it has a driving range of up to 401km on one full charge but it's got more power than the rear-wheel-drive variant, 225kW vs. 160kW.

Either way, while it weighs over two short tons, the IONIQ 5 is surprisingly sporty to drive and easy to live with because its clever suspension setup consists of front MacPherson struts and a rear multilink suspension. On a rear-wheel-drive variant, that's about as dynamic as a luxury car but on an all-wheel-drive variant, it sure is capable even on a rainy day.

On the issue of safety, the IONIQ 5 features a wide array of safety tech from its Highway Driving Assist 2, parking assistance features, and side-view cameras just like the ones used on the Lexus ES and the Honda e.

So, is this the electric vehicle you want to drive? While the boxy exterior design raises some questions, its IKEA-esque interior quality, spacing, performance, and tech made the IONIQ 5 a tour de force for Hyundai's electrification revolution, and looks like it has just begun.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Hyundai IONIQ (2020 minor change)

Since two years ago, Hyundai launched the IONIQ as a response to the Toyota Prius and while it wasn't as efficient as its chief rival, this hybrid does all the things the Prius can't and that is behaving like a normal car. With the latest minor change, there's more work to do for Hyundai's dedicated eco car for the masses.

2020 Hyundai IONIQ

2020 Hyundai IONIQ interior

Available in hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid versions, the facelifted Hyundai IONIQ has made it even more clever than the previous model. With a new grille, new LED lights, and new wheels, the revised exterior design really means business and on the inside, the dashboard's revised with a new touchscreen (in 8-inch display audio or 10.25-inch navigation guise) and a new climate control. That's pretty much it for the new interior, which is still as comfortable as the old model and sustainable as well thanks to extensive use of sustainable materials.

The fuel efficiency remains the same for these models. The hybrid model with its Kappa 1.6L GDi engine connected to a 32kW electric motor and a lithium-ion battery, mated to its double clutch gearbox, delivers a combined fuel efficiency of 22.4km/L while the Plug-in with its Kappa 1.6L GDi engine connected to a 44.5kW electric motor and a 6-speed Double Clutch Gearbox promises a combined rate of 20.5km/L. Nothing's changed of course but these models are getting a new mode that switches these IONIQ models into electric-only mode when driving into designated low-emission zones. It works well on city centers but sounds above average if you ask them.

For the sake of cleverness, the facelifted IONIQ's been offered with a wide range of tech such as regenerative braking, optional one-pedal operation, Hyundai SmartSense safety features, and many others.

The Hyundai IONIQ minor change starts at 24,680,000 Won while the IONIQ Plug-in minor change starts at 28,940,000 Korean Won.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in and Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid

As South Koreans demanded for some fuel-efficient vehicles in tough times, Hyundai and Kia responded to these times with their latest PHEV offerings for the general public. For Hyundai, they have the Ioniq Plug-in for those who are living the urban lifestyle. For Kia, they have the Niro Plug-in Hybrid, Korea's first PHEV crossover made for the outgoing people. Let's take a look at these two PHEVs offered for the Korean motoring public and why they are significant to them.

2017 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in

First off, let's look at the Ioniq Plug-In, the third addition to the Ioniq range consisting of the normal hybrid model and the electric model that runs only on electric power. With prices start from 33,730,000 Korean Won until privileges applied to its pricing to make it 27,300,000 Won his is by no means the best of both worlds for the third Ioniq because with this one, they can do both things; refuel and recharge, and this is the future done right by the Koreans.

With the Kappa GDi 1.6L petrol engine producing 105PS of power coupled with the 44.5kW electric motor and a 6-speed Double Clutch Gearbox unheard from most PHEVs, this Ioniq can get through 0-100kph in 10.6 seconds and 80-120kph in 7.6 seconds, so this PHEV is very spritey with life. In EV mode, it can travel up to 46km of driving range, and fuel efficiency, it promises a combined rate of 20.5km/L. Not bad for a PHEV that weighs around one and a half ton. Because this is an Ioniq, its aerodynamic styling plays a crucial role in attaining its fuel efficiency status and that is a good thing. Even though this is just Korea's take on the Prius PHV, the Ioniq Plug-in handles like a dream and once you get a hold of it, it feels like you can forget about the stubborn image of what a PHEV looks like because the world needs a better one, not another one as you may.

Of course, because this is one of the most advanced PHEV vehicles ever made, the Ioniq Plug-in comes with Hyundai Smart Sense consists of Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist System, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Smart Cruise Control. Simple as that.

2018 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid

Now, let's take a look on the Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid, Korea's first PHEV crossover SUV ever built. With prices start at 33,050,000 Won before government subsidy applied, the Niro Plug-In Hybrid might be the ideal fuel-efficient crossover fit enough for your quiet Sunday drives.

Like the Ioniq Plug-in, the Niro Plug-In Hybrid is powered by a Kappa GDi 1.6L petrol engine producing 105PS of power coupled with the 44.5kW electric motor and a 6-speed Double Clutch Gearbox, and like the Ioniq Plug-in, you can refuel it or recharge it with the available 220V charger.

In EV mode, the Niro Plug-In Hybrid can travel up to 40km of driving range and with both the engine and the electric motor armed, it can travel up to 840km of driving range. In other words, that gives it 18.6km/L of combined fuel efficiency. Easier said than done.

With these PHEVs offered to the Korean motoring public, fuel efficiency and ecology never felt so alive and when the Japanese offered us fuel efficiency PHEVs that are too regular to drive on a day-to-day basis, the Koreans sure know how to liven it up with a little bit of driving fun that is unheard of from most PHEVs and with cars like the Ioniq and Niro, they really are heading on the right direction.